Kelly Hansen, American singer-songwriter

Kelly Hansen, born on April 18, 1961, is a distinguished American vocalist widely recognized as the powerful voice fronting the iconic rock band Foreigner. His journey through the music industry is a testament to perseverance and versatility, marked by various projects and collaborations before he ultimately found his long-term home with one of rock’s most enduring acts.

The Genesis of a Rocker: Early Career and Hurricane

Hansen’s musical odyssey began modestly, honing his craft as an independent studio singer. This foundational experience allowed him to develop the vocal prowess and adaptability that would serve him throughout his career. It was during this period that he connected with guitarist Robert Sarzo and bassist Tony Cavazo, brothers of Rudy Sarzo and Carlos Cavazo, who were already known for their work with the popular hard-rock band Quiet Riot. Together, in 1984, they formed Hurricane, a hard-rock outfit that quickly made a name for itself in the vibrant music scene of the mid-to-late 1980s.

Hurricane garnered moderate commercial success during their active years, releasing albums that resonated with the era’s hard rock enthusiasts. Their music, characterized by Hansen’s dynamic vocals and the band's energetic performances, helped them build a loyal following. However, the capricious nature of the music industry dealt them a significant blow when their record label faced bankruptcy in 1991. This unfortunate turn of events led to the band’s disbandment shortly thereafter, a common yet heartbreaking fate for many talented groups during that era.

A Versatile Performer: Post-Hurricane Endeavors

Undeterred by Hurricane’s dissolution, Hansen continued to pursue his passion for music with unwavering dedication. He became a sought-after guest and session singer, lending his distinctive voice to a diverse array of projects. His collaborations during this time included notable acts such as Slash's Snakepit, Fergie Fredriksen, Don Dokken, and Bourgeois Pigs, showcasing his adaptability across different rock subgenres and cementing his reputation as a reliable and talented vocalist.

In 1998, Hansen took on a new role, joining the band Unruly Child as the replacement for their previous vocalist, Mark Free. With Hansen at the helm, Unruly Child recorded a new album that was subsequently released in early 1999, further expanding his discography. The early 2000s also saw a brief reunion of Hurricane in 2001, albeit with an altered lineup, releasing a new album titled "Liquifury." Two years later, in 2003, Hansen joined forces with Fabrizio V.Zee Grossi, leading to the creation of their self-titled album under the band name Perfect World, demonstrating his continued exploration of new musical partnerships and styles.

Stepping into a Legacy: Fronting Foreigner

A pivotal moment in Kelly Hansen's career arrived in 2005 when he was invited to join the legendary rock band Foreigner. This opportunity came after the departure of the band's long-standing lead singer, Lou Gramm, in 2003, following ongoing creative differences and conflicts with Foreigner's founder and guitarist, Mick Jones. Hansen was tasked with the significant challenge of filling the shoes of a revered vocalist and becoming only the third lead singer in Foreigner's illustrious history, following Lou Gramm and Johnny Edwards.

Since joining Foreigner, Hansen has breathed new life into the band's classic catalog while also contributing to new material. His powerful voice, stage presence, and ability to faithfully interpret Foreigner's iconic songs have been instrumental in the band's sustained success and continued relevance on the global rock stage. He has helped introduce Foreigner to new generations of fans while satisfying the loyal followers who have adored the band for decades.

Beyond the Stage: Personal Life

When not touring or recording, Kelly Hansen finds solace and privacy in Southern California. He divides his time between two distinct homes in the Los Angeles area, one nestled in the scenic hills of Calabasas and the other gracing the picturesque coastline of Malibu. These contrasting locales reflect a lifestyle that balances the vibrant energy of the entertainment industry with the tranquility of coastal living, offering him retreats from the demanding schedule of a touring rock star.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When was Kelly Hansen born?
Kelly Hansen was born on April 18, 1961.
What bands was Kelly Hansen in before joining Foreigner?
Before Foreigner, Kelly Hansen was notably the lead singer of Hurricane and Unruly Child. He also recorded with Perfect World and performed as a guest/session singer for various projects including Slash's Snakepit, Fergie Fredriksen, Don Dokken, and Bourgeois Pigs.
When did Kelly Hansen join Foreigner?
Kelly Hansen joined Foreigner in 2005.
Who were the lead singers of Foreigner before Kelly Hansen?
The lead singers of Foreigner before Kelly Hansen were Lou Gramm and Johnny Edwards.
What happened to Kelly Hansen's band Hurricane?
Hurricane disbanded in 1991 after their record label went bankrupt, a common challenge faced by many bands in the music industry during that period. They did, however, briefly reunite in 2001 with an altered lineup.
Where does Kelly Hansen live?
Kelly Hansen divides his time between two homes in Los Angeles, one in Calabasas and the other in Malibu.